SEQUINS AND SAMBA

The Plains Art Museum Gala goes tropical

Hundreds of revelers at the 19th Annual Plains Art Museum Gala celebrated in style on May 2. This year’s theme, Brazilian-inspired Carnaval!, transported partygoers from the very first moment. Aerialists twisted and twirled high above the crowd as servers in elaborately feathered headdresses served tempting nibbles from skirts that doubled as tables.

Servers circulated with passed hors d'oeuvres from Mosaic Foods, while platters heaped with food beckoned to foodies from the third floor. Nichole’s Fine Pastry tempted attendees with tiny tartlets, delicate cakes and colorfully frosted, bite-sized éclairs.

The Carluster Crumplebee Orchestra kept the party pulsing as guests sampled wine and beer from Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops and sipped cocktails from Sidestreet Grille & Pub. Partygoers supplemented their evening attire (think colorful gowns, mysterious masks and lots of festive feathers) with bewitching designs from Pikadilly Face Painting and posed for photos with friends as dusk faded to dark.

“The energy levels, the excitement, the theme – it all came together in such a wonderful way,” said Amy Richardson, communications director for the Plains Art Museum. “First and foremost it’s a fundraiser, but it’s also a wonderful party. It’s a great event for a great cause.”

Ticket revenue, sponsorships and funds raised during the silent art auction help support educational outreach programs at the museum and organizers say this year was the most successful gala yet. Planning for the Plains Art Museum Gala was overseen by co-chair couples Bill Marcil, Jr. and Cris Linnares, as well as Kathryn Helgaas and Doug Burgum. [AWM]